Podcast Summary: Armstrong & Getty On Demand — "How Mimetic Are You?"

Release Date: May 22, 2025
Host: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction to Mimetic Desire

In the "How Mimetic Are You?" episode of Armstrong & Getty On Demand, hosts Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty delve into the intricate concept of mimetic desire, exploring how human desires are often unconsciously influenced by the desires of others. This episode offers a thought-provoking discussion on the nature of desire, social conformity, and the psychological mechanisms that drive our choices.

Defining Mimetic Desire

The conversation kicks off with Joe Getty introducing the topic:

Joe Getty [01:05]: "How mimetic are you? It's one more thing."

The hosts wrestle with the pronunciation and meaning of "mimetic," setting the stage for a deep dive into how our desires are shaped not just by personal preference but by the influences around us.

Social Influence and Desire Formation

Joe Getty elaborates on how individuals, particularly those who are less physically assertive, rely on consensus and group alignment for safety and acceptance:

Joe Getty [01:36]: "People who can't defend themselves physically need more consensus because they need more desperately to be part of a group to protect themselves."

This leads to a discussion on peer pressure and the formation of alliances, especially among young women who prioritize group belonging as an adaptive mechanism.

The Illusion of Autonomous Desires

The hosts reference René Girard's theory of the "romantic lie," which posits that people often believe their desires are independent when, in reality, they are influenced by external models:

Joe Getty [06:00]: "This assumption that my desires are all my own, this story that I tell myself is what René Girard called the romantic lie."

Jack Armstrong questions whether recognizing this mimetic nature is detrimental or simply an aspect of human nature:

Jack Armstrong [06:43]: "Is somebody suggesting that this is bad, though, that we should fight against this? Or is this okay?"

The consensus leans towards understanding and awareness rather than fighting against these ingrained behaviors.

Practical Examples of Mimetic Desire

Joe Getty provides relatable examples to illustrate mimetic desire:

• Running a Marathon: The sudden, collective desire to undertake strenuous activities like marathons in mid-life stages.

• Purchasing Trends: Deciding to buy a dog during COVID because it seemed timely, despite being the only one in the friend group to do so.

• Fashion Choices: Picking a popular color shirt not based on personal preference but because it's trendy.

Jack Armstrong [05:52]: "I decide that I want to wear this color shirt has nothing to do with the fact that it has become popular, right?"

These examples highlight how desires are often externally motivated, reflecting societal trends rather than individual needs.

The Endless Cycle of Desire

The discussion progresses to the concept that desire is never truly satiated. Once one desire is fulfilled, another immediately takes its place:

Joe Getty [13:09]: "Desire always needs something to latch onto. It can't stay free floating in this sense. It operates like a bicuspid that has to be attached to a substrate."

This perpetual cycle prevents long-term satisfaction, as individuals continuously seek new desires influenced by ever-evolving models.

Personal Reflections and Real-Life Implications

Both hosts share personal anecdotes to illustrate their points. Jack Armstrong talks about his son's relentless pursuit of happiness through material possessions, while Joe Getty reflects on his own struggles with real estate desires:

Joe Getty [13:21]: "I went on Zillow and Redfin and all of those real estate websites all the time... if I moved there, I would still be doing this."

These stories underscore the ubiquity of mimetic desire in everyday life and its impact on personal fulfillment.

Julius Caesar and the "Romantic Lie"

A brief mention of Julius Caesar serves as a historical anchor to René Girard's theories:

Joe Getty [10:44]: "It's the I came, I saw, I conquered thing. He was just deluding himself."

This reference emphasizes how even historical figures were not immune to mimetic influences, reinforcing the universality of the concept.

Conclusion: Embracing Awareness

The episode concludes with an acknowledgment that while mimetic desire is an inherent part of human nature, awareness and understanding can lead to more informed and conscious decision-making. The hosts encourage listeners to recognize the external influences on their desires and strive for greater self-awareness to achieve genuine satisfaction.

Notable Quotes

• Joe Getty [01:36]: "People who can't defend themselves physically need more consensus because they need more desperately to be part of a group to protect themselves."

• Joe Getty [06:00]: "This assumption that my desires are all my own, this story that I tell myself is what René Girard called the romantic lie."

• Joe Getty [13:09]: "Desire always needs something to latch onto. It can't stay free floating in this sense. It operates like a bicuspid that has to be attached to a substrate."

• Joe Getty [10:44]: "It's the I came, I saw, I conquered thing. He was just deluding himself."

Key Takeaways

• Mimetic Desire: Our desires are often influenced by the desires of others, leading to conformity and social alignment.

• Romantic Lie: The belief that our desires are entirely autonomous is a pervasive misconception.

• Perpetual Seeking: Desire is an endless cycle; fulfilling one desire leads to the birth of another.

• Awareness is Crucial: Understanding the origins of our desires can lead to more conscious and fulfilling choices.

This episode of Armstrong & Getty On Demand offers listeners a deep exploration into the psychology of desire, encouraging introspection and mindfulness in an age dominated by social influence and constant change.